Trio gives MU options at center
Marquette coach Steve Wojciechowski has some “big” decisions to make about his rotation.
With three centers now at his disposal, Wojciechowski has to choose how best to deploy them.
Matt Heldt, a 6-foot-10 junior, has started every game for MU (8-3) and will likely get the nod again when the Golden Eagles face American (3-7) in their last non-conference game at the BMO Harris Bradley Center on Thursday.
Heldt is a strong screener who rolls hard to the basket. Wojciechowski often raves about Heldt’s consistency and his awareness on defense. But Heldt is not a big part of the offense — he’s taken only 33 shots all season.
Harry Froling, a 6-11 sophomore, played just three minutes against Northern Illinois in his first game eligible after transferring from SMU. He is a skilled shooter but will probably be worked into the rotation slowly.
Theo John, a 6-9 freshman, has shown flashes in recent games and is a bruiser who is learning to play without fouling.
So all three players offer different skill sets and give Wojciechowski options, which will be crucial once Big East play begins next week.
“It depends on how Harry adjusts to coming back. It will be a game by game,”
Wojciechowski said when asked about the big-man rotation last week. “In our league, you have to be ready to play different. We could have a lineup where (6-8 sophomore) Sam (Hauser) is at the three and we play big (with Froling at power forward).
“We have to see how effective those things are. We’re just starting to integrate Harry into the team and some of the rotation stuff will work itself out.”
John made a case for more playing time by recording seven points, five rebounds and three blocks in 14 minutes against Northern Illinois on Monday.
“He is playing more off his instincts. I thought he had some of his most physical plays of the season (against Northern Illinois). I thought it was the most consistent minutes that he’s given us,” Wojciechowski said.
“I think sometimes with young players in general, but especially young big guys, we just tell them, ‘Block shots. You do that really well. Don’t overthink it. If a shot goes up and you can get a hand on it, block that thing.’
“I thought he did that (against the Huskies). Maybe that freed him up from overthinking. I thought he was physical. I thought it was the best game he’s played. In a lot of respects he changed the game.”
Foul trouble has limited John this season. He has a team-high 36 fouls in 120 minutes over 11 games. He fouled out of the Golden Eagles’ first three games of the season.
But John has looked more comfortable in recent games. In his last three outings, John has notched five of his seven blocks and 15 of his 30 points.
“Confidence is a big thing. Got my first few games under my belt. It took a little longer than expected, but that confidence is starting to come,” John said. “I’m just playing, getting lost in the game.”
That gives Wojciechowski a lot to think about.